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The Muse

Chic Sheet: Summer Denim

This rough-and-tough fabric doesn't disappear just because temperatures get a little steamy; it reinvents itself, again and again

By: Anna Pezik

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Photo: Getty Images

A year-round staple, denim is one of those timeless fabrics that never go out of style. It’s been torn, studded, cuffed, distressed, washed and then washed again. Whether a designer splurge (we’re looking at you here, Poppy), a label-less find scooped up at a neighborhood flea market or a uniquely one-of-a-kind piece found buried in the racks of your favorite local boutique, when it comes to denim, it’s all about personal interpretation. And summer is the season for creative tailoring and tweaking: we’re talking an extra roll or two above the ankles (to show off the season’s colorful sandals, wedges and ballet flats, of course) lighter-weight weaves, and softer washes with draping akin to soft chambray button-downs and menswear-inspired trousers. Jessica Alba hit the style mark in skinny dark denim paired with strappy heels and a printed strapless top, while Karlie Kloss went super-casual in cutoffs. But it’s Alexa Chung who stole our hearts and scored huge style points for her denim overalls, perfectly accessorized with chucky hardware and a python-print bag.

Rock and Romance

These high-waist dark denim cutoffs look equally cool with a rocker tee and motorcycle boots as they do with a romantic off-the-shoulder sheer blouse and strappy flat sandals.

Denim After Dark

Dressy Denim

High-rise harem-style pants give denim a dressier look, and you, a little extra breathing room. They are versatile enough to wear to the office with a cami and cropped blazer and with a strapless peplum-hem top for an evening out with the girls.